The Junior Honorary Rangers of the SANParks Honorary Rangers Lowveld Region have been rather busy of late.

As the year begins to wind down, they show no signs of slowing down and maintain their fully packed itinerary. They were recently spoilt to some amazing experiences. In September, they got to spend a weekend in the Kruger National Park, which was a long-awaited treat for all.

During this time, they provided assistance in a Skukuza Nursery fundraiser awareness campaign, planted a number of trees, conducted a litter patrol in Skukuza Rest Camp and visited the anti-poaching K9 unit and rhino boma, and still had time to have fun and support the Springboks at the Selati Train Station in Skukuza.

It was a great opportunity for children and facilitators alike to bond after a successful year thus far. “It was amazing to see so many teenagers with no interest in their cellphones for an entire weekend, a rare sight these days and a testimony to their activity enjoyment!” Chris Daniel, co-ordinator of the Lowveld Junior Honorary Rangers, said.

Most recently, the juniors were treated to an ornithology and birding event in the Lowveld National Botanical Garden. They were fortunate on this occasion to have professional Lowveld bird guide René Rossouw guiding them and assisting with bird identification techniques and opportunities in this industry for their futures.

Rossouw’s knowledge of birds, calls and all that goes with this pastime was truly remarkable, and although the information shared was kept at an entry level, it was still very insightful and an eye-opener to all involved.

Daniel extended a thanks to all who participated and made the opportunities available for the Junior Honorary Rangers.

“In particular, we’d like to thank the programme sponsors, Citybug, BUCO Nelspruit, Crossing SUPERSPAR and the SANParks Honorary Ranger volunteers who give up their time to make these events a reality for our future conservationists,” he said.